Canine Enforcement Unit

The San Luis Police Department Canine unit currently consists of three police service dog teams. Zaza a five year female Belgium Shepherd, handled by Canine Officer Galvan, Rambo a five year old male Belgium Malinois handled by Canine Officer Miller, and Denis a five year old male German Shepard handled by Officer Vasquez. Denis, Zaza and Rambo are dual purpose service dogs and are currently certified through the National Police Canine Association (NPCA).

The canine program was established in the year 2010 with the teams attending the United States Border Patrol Canine Academy in El Paso, Texas (CCEP) and the Arizona Department of Corrections Service Dog Academy.

The canine teams currently train a minimum of eight hours per week with the surrounding agencies to help maintain their proficiency.

In addition to assisting with normal patrol duties, the Canine Unit is frequently called upon to assist other officers on all types of searches. They may be used in vehicle and foot pursuits to locate fleeing suspects and for containment. They also conduct demonstrations within the community for schools, and community groups.